First Night Portsmouth welcomes in 2014

Once again, First Night Portsmouth delighted thousands of revelers with music, dance, fireworks and the sense of community that one can only experience by being there.

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seacoastonline.com

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Posted Jan. 20, 2014 at 2:00 AM

Posted Jan. 20, 2014 at 2:00 AM

» Social News

Jan. 16 — To the Editor:

Once again, First Night Portsmouth delighted thousands of revelers with music, dance, fireworks and the sense of community that one can only experience by being there.

Was it a bit chilly? Of course — it's winter in New Hampshire! That did not deter the folks who bundled up and made their way 'round town in and out of the nine entertainment venues. As for the fireworks display, well, there's something about the night sky in December that gives the display a real brightness, a crisp, clean look that is simply dazzling.

To all of our supporters and participants: thank you. Together we created yet another terrific community event.

Thank you to our First Night "hosts": The Connie Bean gym at the Middle School, Middle Street Baptist Fellowship Hall, North Church, Saint John's Episcopal Church Hall, Seacoast Repertory Theatre, Temple Israel, UU/South Church, United Methodist Fellowship Hall and the West End Studio Theatre. Each year, these groups generously give us the keys to their buildings, allowing us to present wonderful performances to all. Looking ahead, we hope that other groups downtown will consider joining — or rejoining — us as First Night venues. The continued success of an event like this depends on our ability to meet the demand for space.

Thank you to the City Council and city staff — you are Pro Portsmouth.

To those who assist with button sales — we are truly grateful. This includes Hannaford/Islington Street, Discover Portsmouth Center, G. Willikers!, People's United Bank/Seacoast branches and the Flower Kiosk.

And a special thank you goes out to Mark McNabb and Barbara Allen of McNabb Properties, and Roger Elkus and Daryl McGann of Me & Ollie's. When it became clear that the cold temperatures might impact our button check-in and sales site in the Square, these four literally invited us in from the cold. Our button sales' site at 10 Pleasant St. was a huge success — thank you!

Thanks to all the volunteers who spend New Year's Eve with Pro Portsmouth. You are something special. Thank you.

And if you bought a First Night Button, well, lots of people thank you. Your purchase went toward the support of everything from the sound company to the Ryder rentals, from the ice sculpture and fireworks to each and every performer. Buying a button meant that you walked the talk of "I support the arts." Profound gratitude to you since your generosity and belief helps Pro Portsmouth make this happen.

Now, we turn our attention to Children's Day, Market Square Day Festival & 10K Road Race, and Summer in the Street. We hope you can join us.

On behalf of our board of directors and our volunteer coordinator, Nicole McShane, thanks to all who continue to believe in and support Pro Portsmouth.